| Project Detail |
Texas Tech will develop boron nitride (BN) fast neutron detectors (FND) for energies up to tens of mega-electron volts based on their recent development of hexagonal BN semiconductor thermal neutron detectors with record efficiencies of >59%. BN FNDs have unique advantages, including compact size, high gamma rejection ratio, low voltage operation, and low fabrication and maintenance costs. These neutron detectors can operate in high temperatures and harsh environments and detect thermal and fast neutrons simultaneously. The BN FND could be installed on the perimeter or in the core of a nuclear reactor to directly monitor reactor and fuel status. The technology also has the potential to replace the multiple Helium-3 (3He) gas tube-based neutron detectors currently deployed in geothermal and well logging tools.
Potential Impact:
The BN FND’s unprecedented performance at a reduced cost could create new applications in nuclear energy, national security, nuclear waste monitoring and management, the health care industry, and material sciences. |
